Monday, March 18, 2024

Steele still has 'work to do,' wants to remain in State House

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CHELAN - Michael Steele wants to remain the 12th Legislative District State Representative for another term. The Chelan native recently spoke to NCW Media Managing Editor Gary Bégin about the various issues he plans on tackling if reelected. His answers follow:

NCW Media: What new 12th District issues (if any) are you bringing to the table in Olympia, should you get re-elected?

Steele: I am very passionate about workforce housing and finding state level solutions to address this ongoing issue. I also want to continue to work on career connected learning, Career and Technical Education and Steam policies.

NCW Media: Do you have goal for the next session?

Steele: I want to continue working on the policies mentioned above. I will continue to serve on the Capital Budget Committee and want secure funding for several ongoing projects throughout the 12th Legislative District.

NCW Media: Do you have any answers or remedies regarding wildfires?

Steele: I have scheduled a meeting with Commissioner Franz, Maia Bellon, the Director of the Department of Ecology and the Superintendent of the Forest Service to see how our state and federal agencies can work better together in order to achieve greater prescribed burning goals.

NCW Media: Do you have any specific platform to share with the readers?

Steele: My platform continues to be job creation, economic growth and continuing to working on improving the lives of all individuals in the 12th District.

NCW Media: Do you feel your experience in attracting tourists to Lake Chelan is a help in understanding tourism's importance to the 12th District?

Steele: Absolutely. Tourism is the second largest economic driver here in our district, behind agriculture. Communities in the Methow, Lake Chelan, Wenatchee and Leavenworth are remarkable examples of how tourism can positively impact economies.  

NCW Media: How will you as a rural Republican, work with urban Democrats in getting compromise on key issues like over-reaching government business regulations?

Steele: I have already been seen as a collaborator and someone that is willing to work across party lines to achieve good policy. Building relationships and working in a professional bi-partisan manner is the best way to achieve policies that benefit the whole state, urban and rural.

NCW Media: Can you as a state legislator, influence the state's federal delegation to rid us of tariffs, especially on fruit?

Steele: I have expressed my concerns over tariffs and their impacts here in the 12th District to our federal delegation. I know they all share the same concerns and are working toward solutions.

NCW Media: Feel free to mention anything you like such as family, education, hobbies, passions, etc.
Steele: I have been honored to serve the people of the 12th District. I am excited and encouraged by the support I have received and I look forward to returning to Olympia as a continued advocate for the people of the 12th.

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